Summer Reading Response #2

There are two common discussions that occur in response to Parts Three and Four of Capote's *In Cold Blood.* The first is the question of degree of guilt for Dick and Perry: Which individual is most to blame for the murders that occurred in Holcomb and why? Did they both deserve the death penalty? The second is the question of Capote's own opinion on the matter. He deftly maintains what seems to be an objective persona as narrator of this brutal tale, but of course has a strong opinion he is "masking"- otherwise, why write this masterpiece that he later claimed almost destroyed him? Making specific references to the text to support your position, answer both questions above. Then return to the blog later and respond to a peer's post on the matter- replying to either one or both of your colleague's answers to questions above. You will receive your score for this assignment in two parts: 15 points awarded for your own insightful post and 15 points awarded for a thoughtful response to at least one peer. Remember that I am looking for effort as well as evidence of your reading. I will enter this online discussion later, but want to wait and see what you all say first!

Summer Reading Response #1

Truman Capote’s *In Cold Blood* is not an easy book to read. It deals methodically with a horrendous act that seems an inescapable aspect of human nature: murder; and it deals with this act in a highly literary and descriptive fashion- providing the reader with extensive background information and details related to both the victims and the perpetrators. However, it is for these very reasons that *In Cold Blood* is considered an American classic and is highly esteemed as a literary work, even though it is one of the few nonfiction pieces to fall into this category. Going back through the first half of the novel, choose a passage between five and fifteen lines long, that you feel truly captures Capote’s unique style as a writer, and explain how this passage embodies his skill and what is its deeper connection to what you’ve read of the novel thus far. You will be scored based on your insight, thoughtfulness, and effort. (Please see my example and graduates' examples in the comments below.) HERE’S THE CATCH: You must NOT choose the same passage- even part of the same passage- as already appears in another’s response, nor should you regurgitate someone else’s analysis. Read through all other responses carefully before completing your own so as not to repeat. (Total Points: 30 of 100 for entire Summer Reading Assignment)